Socks and methods for making the same

ABSTRACT

A sock manufactured and sold in specific sizes. The size of the sock corresponds to a shoe size. The invention also includes a method of manufacturing and selling socks in specific sizes corresponding to shoe size.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a non-provisional application of and claims priority benefit to co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/679,106, filed on Jun. 1, 2018, and entitled Socks and Method for Making the Same, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to hosiery and socks. More particularly, though not exclusively, the present invention relates to a method of manufacture and an improved sock construction by which socks are made in specific sizes.

BACKGROUND

A sock is generally constructed from a unitary design. That is, the same sock may be worn on either a right or left foot. In general, socks are made in sizes that are either provided in a numerical range (i.e., Size 4-11), an alphabetical size (i.e., S, M, L, XL), or a combination of alphabetical size and numerical range (e.g., S (5-7)). Alternatively, socks are made as a single size that is intended to fit all consumers (i.e., one size fits all).

In some instances, the numerical size ranges for socks correspond to the length of a consumer's foot. However, there are instances where numerical size ranges for socks correspond to a range of shoe sizes. In some cases, it is not abundantly clear to the consumer whether the numerical range is a reference to foot length or shoe size. Additionally, there is no consistency in sizing of socks between manufacturers/brands. For example, a sock having a size “S” offered by one brand may have a completely different shape and fit as compared to the shape and fit size “S” offered by another brand. Such discrepancy and rampant use of alternative sizing leads to consumer confusion and forces customers to adopt a trial-and-error method for selecting socks.

For example, the SmartWool® sock size chart identifies the following size ranges:

Sock Size U.S. Men's Shoe Size S 3-5.5 M 6-8.5 L  9-11.5 XL 12-14.5

The Bridgedale® sock size chart identifies the following size ranges, which are similar but not identical to SmartWool®:

Sock Size U.S. Men's Shoe Size S 4-6.5 M 7-9.5 L 10-12.5 XL 13+

The Nike® sock size chart identifies yet a different range of sizes:

Sock Size U.S. Men's Shoe Size S n/a M 6-8 L  8-12 XL 12-15

In some styles, Hanes® socks for men come in sizes “10-13” and “12-14”. It is not abundantly clear to a consumer if the sizes refer to shoe size or foot length until the consumer consults a size chart that decodes the sizing for Hanes® socks.

In addition to the confusion, discrepancy and inconsistency provided by numerical range sizes and alphabetical sizing, it is noted that each consumer has different foot measurements as compared to another consumer. Accordingly, a sock designed to fit all consumers (“one size fits all”) or to fit a broad range of differently sized feet (e.g., size 10-12), will not provide an optimally fitted sock for a particular consumer. When socks do not fit a consumer's foot there are several results, which include, but are not limited to: bunched up fabric in shoes (resulting from socks that are too big); socks that fall down (resulting from socks that are too big); socks that dig into portions of a consumer's ankle or calf (resulting from socks that are too small); socks that result in compressed toes (resulting from socks having an ill-fitting (i.e., small) toe box); and socks that slip off a consumer's ankle and get “eaten” by a consumer's shoe (resulting from socks that are too small).

Thus, the current sizing format of socks requires consumers to buy multiple brands and types of socks in a variety of sizes in order to arrive at a sock that best fits their feet. Even if consumers finally find socks that best fits their feet, the fit may still not be entirely comfortable to accommodate the particular measurements of their feet since the sock is made to fit a range of differently sized feet.

For the same reason that it is not optimal for a consumer to buy a shoe that has a numerical range size, is not optimal for a consumer to accept numerical ranges for sock size, since such sizing results in a poor and uncomfortable fit for a consumer. It would therefore be desirable to provide an improved sock that is sold in specific sizes such that a consumer would understand how the sock will fit their feet.

SUMMARY

One aspect of the invention is directed to a sock having a foot portion having a toe area extending to an opposing a heel area; and a leg portion adjoining the foot portion at an ankle area, the leg portion terminating at an opening for placement of the sock on a foot, wherein the sock is sized in accordance with a shoe size. In one embodiment, the shoe size is a standard American shoe size.

Another aspect of the invention is directed to a method of manufacturing a sock, the method includes knitting a plurality of fibers to form a foot portion having a toe area extending to an opposing a heel area and a leg portion adjoining the foot portion at an ankle area, the leg portion terminating at an opening for placement of the sock on a foot, wherein the sock is knitted to a size in accordance with a shoe size. In one embodiment, the shoe size is a standard American shoe size.

A method of making a sock, the method includes knitting a plurality of fibers to form a foot portion having a toe area extending to an opposing a heel area and a leg portion adjoining the foot portion at an ankle area, the leg portion terminating at an opening for placement of the sock on a foot, wherein the sock is knitted in a size in accordance with a standard American shoe size selected from a men size 1 to a men size 17.

These and additional aspects of the invention are described in more detail below and illustrated in the attached drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a pair of socks according to certain aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B are schematic views of different types of socks in accordance with certain aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a chart with details concerning men's shoe sizes according to U.K. and U.S. shoe sizes;

FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a sock according to certain aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a method in accordance with certain aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a picture of prior art socks;

FIGS. 7A and 7B are pictures of prior art socks on a size 11.5 NAHM board;

FIGS. 8A and 8B are pictures of prior art socks on a size 12 NAHM board;

FIGS. 9A and 9B are pictures of prior art socks on a size 13 NAHM board;

FIGS. 10A and 10B are pictures of prior art socks on a size 14 NAHM board;

FIG. 11 is a picture of a sock according to the present invention on a size 11.5 NAHM board;

FIG. 12 is a picture of a sock according to the present invention on a size 12 NAHM board;

FIG. 13 is a picture of a sock according to the present invention on a size 13 NAHM board;

FIG. 14 is a picture of a sock according to the present invention on a size 12 NAHM board;

FIG. 15 is a picture of a sock according to the present invention on a size 13 NAHM board; and

FIG. 16 is a picture of a sock according to the present invention on a size 14 NAHM board.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following specification and the claims which follow, reference will be made to a number of terms, which shall be defined to have the following meanings.

The singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms, such as “about”, is not to be limited to the precise value specified. In some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value.

Ranges of numerical values, e.g., from about 2 to about 7, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, include all values falling within the range as well as the boundaries of the given range. As an example, the range of “from about 2 to about 7” includes the values 2 and 7 and every fraction therebetween, e.g., 2.05, 2.10, 2.12, etc.

FIG. 1 illustrates a pair of socks. One aspect of the present invention is concerned with a sock 100, and it is the understanding that the sock will be paired with another sock for marketing and sale to a consumer. It is contemplated that sock 100 is made in a unitary design to fit either a left foot or a right foot of a consumer. Alternatively, sock 100 is made in a left foot design or a right foot design and matched to a complementary design, i.e., a right foot design sock is matched with a left foot design sock.

As shown in FIG. 1, sock 100 includes a foot portion 102 having a toe box area 104 and an opposing heel area 106 with an arch portion 107 extending from the toe box area to the heel area. The sock 100 also includes a leg portion 108 adjoining the foot portion 102 at an ankle area 110. The leg portion 108 terminates at a circumferential opening 112 (often referred to as the welt or the cuff). The circumferential opening 112 facilitates placement of the sock 100 on a foot (not shown).

While the sock 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 is shown to have a leg portion 108 with a length L in accordance with a traditional mid-calf length sock, it is contemplated that the length L of the leg portion 108 is of any length. Sock 100 may have a leg portion 108 having a length L in accordance with any one of an ankle length sock (the leg portion extends to the ankle of a consumer, or just below the ankle of a consumer; also commonly referred to as a “no-show sock”), a knee length sock (the leg portion extends to a knee, or just below the knee, of the consumer), a calf length sock (the leg portion extends to or over the calf, but below the knee, of a consumer), a mid-calf length sock (the leg portion extends to mid-calf of a consumer), a crew length sock (the leg portion extends over and past the ankle of a consumer), or a quarter length sock (the leg portion extends over the ankle of a consumer). In one example, the length L of leg portion 108 can be from about 0.25 inches (0.64 cm) to about 8.25 inches (20.32 cm), or any value therebetween.

Examples of different types of socks are shown in FIGS. 1, 2A and 2B. FIG. 1 illustrates a calf length sock. FIG. 2A illustrates a quarter length sock, while FIG. 2B illustrates an ankle sock, wherein the numbers of FIG. 1 are maintained. As shown in FIG. 2B, it will be appreciated that the length L of the leg portion 108 of an ankle length sock does not extend much of a distance past the ankle area 110. While only certain types of socks are illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2A and 2B, the invention is not limited to those types of socks since all types of socks include the same parts that are illustrated and enumerated herein.

In one embodiment, the sock 100 is sized in accordance with a shoe size. As one skilled in the art will know and recognize, shoe sizes vary from region to region, e.g., Europe, United Kingdom, and United States of America. It is contemplated that the sock 100 is made in accordance with a sizing system favored or used in a particular region to cater to consumer's needs.

The term “standard American shoe sizes” as used herein refers to the “customary” system, in which men's shoes is one size shorter than the U.K. equivalent. That is, a men's size 13 shoe in a standard American shoe size is equivalent to a men's size 12 shoe in the U.K. Another system is in accordance with the Brannock Device, which is a measuring instrument based on the length of the “last”, which is a foot-shaped template. The Brannock system assumes a foot length ⅔ in (1.7 cm) less than the length of the last. For illustration purposes, FIG. 3 provides a chart comparing a small sample of U.K. and standard American men's shoe sizes and includes measurements based on “last” length and the Brannock method. Similar charts are available for women's and children's shoe sizes, as well as other men's shoe sizes.

In another embodiment, the sock 100 is sized based on sizing boards developed and sold by the National Association of Hosiery Manufacturers (NAHM), which are commonly known as NAHM sizing boards or NAHM foot forms, which are generally based on, but not wholly corresponding to, American shoe sizes. There are NAHM sizing boards (also known as “forms”) that are available in a multitude of sizes for men, women and children. As is known in the art, NAHM sizing boards are used to size socks or hosiery to ensure the labeled sock size is correct. In accordance with this embodiment, the sock 100 is labeled with the following sizes in accordance with the NAHM sizing board:

Size of Sock 100 Size of Men's American NAHM Men's Socks Standard Shoe Board Size 7 7 9.5 8 8 10 9 9 10.5 10 10 11 11 11 11.5 12 12 12 13 13 13 14 14 14 15 15 15 16 16 16 17 17 17

In one embodiment, the sock 100 is sized in accordance with a standard American shoe size. In one embodiment the sock 100 is sized in accordance with a men's shoe size, with a specific example being a size in accordance with a men's standard American shoe size. In another embodiment the sock 100 is sized in accordance with a women's shoe size, with a specific example being a size in accordance with a women's standard American shoe size. In another embodiment the sock 100 is sized in accordance with a child's shoe size, with a specific example being a size in accordance with a child's standard American shoe size. The sock 100 of one size will be paired with another sock of the same size and sold as a pair to a consumer. By sizing the sock 100 to a shoe size, the consumer will be able to understand the size of the sock and how it will fit their feet. Thus, it is contemplated that the sock 100 will be sized in accordance with the standard used in the market in which the consumer is buying the sock, e.g., in the U.S.A, the sock 100 will be sized in accordance with American sizing, whereas in the U.K., the sock 100 will be sized in accordance with U.K. sizing, etc.

It is contemplated that the size of the sock 100 can be a whole size (e.g., men's size 5, 6, 7 . . . ) or be a half size (e.g., men's size 5.5, 6.5, 7.5 . . . ). In one embodiment, the sock 100 is sized in accordance with a shoe size without regard to width measurements in accordance with shoe sizes. In another embodiment, the sock 100 is sized in accordance with a shoe size and width measurements in accordance with shoe sizes are taken into account.

As noted above, most consumers are accustomed to buying socks that are labeled with either “S” (small), “M” (medium), or “L” (large), or labeled with a range of sizes, presumably noting shoe size, e.g., “size 6-8” or “size 8-12”. This labeling does not assist the consumer with understanding the type of fit they will obtain with the sock. The labeling is not consistent across brands and/or types of socks, and therefore is confusing to the consumer. The sock 100 of the instant invention is beneficially sized in accordance with a shoe size. Shoe sizes are known and well understood by the consumer, and thus, a consumer looking to purchase a well-fitting sock will be able to do so when sock 100 is sized in accordance with a shoe size.

The inventors of the present invention have spent considerable time and effort to understand how shoe sizes correlate with measurements that can be implemented in a sock to obtain a sock 100 that can be sized in accordance with commonly known shoe sizes. The inventors have studied measurements of socks that result in a sock 100 that provides an optimal fit to a consumer's foot and have been able to use those measurements in correlation to known shoe sizes to present a sock 100 in the same size. For example, a man who wears a size 7 standard American shoe would know that a size 7 of sock 100 will provide an optimal fitting sock. The term “optimal fit” as used herein means that the sock 100 does not compress or pinch the toes of a consumer wearing the sock, sits close to the sole and arch of the consumer wearing the sock, has a comfortable snug fit at the ankle and calf of the consumer wearing the sock, and does not bunch, fall, or otherwise move up/down along the length of a consumer's foot, ankle, and/or calf upon wearing the sock with or without a shoe.

The inventors have discovered that there are several measurements of sock 100 that can be taken and used to achieve the sized sock according to the present invention. Those measurements are taken at certain portions of the sock 100 and are used to manufacture a sock having an optimal fit. In taking the various measurements of the sock 100 the inventors have surprisingly found that a heel lock mechanism 120 is beneficial to obtain a sock 100 with an optimal fit, and more specifically, to stabilize the heel area 106 to a heel of a consumer. The term “stabilize” as used herein with respect to stabilizing the heel area to a heel, means that the heal area 106 of the sock 100 does not bunch up or around the heel of a consumer, slip down the heel or arch portion 107 of the consumer, or over-extend or stretch over the heel area 106 of the consumer.

As shown in FIG. 4, the sock 100 (illustrated as an ankle sock) has the heel area 106, which includes the heel lock mechanism 120. The heel lock mechanism 120 is configured to stabilize the heel area 106 to a heel (not shown). The heel lock mechanism 120 is a unique feature of sock 100 that allows the sock to remain in place on a user's foot and not slip down a user's foot or permit the sock from traveling up a user's ankle or leg. That is, the heel lock mechanism 120 locks the heel area 106 into place on a user's heel.

In one embodiment, the heel lock mechanism 120 includes a quantity of courses (stitches) of fibrous material 114. In another embodiment, the heel lock mechanism 120 includes a quantity of courses of fibrous material 114 that is based on measurement of a heel circumference of a foot in accordance with a standard for a particular size. For example, the heel lock mechanism 120 includes a quantity of courses of fibrous material 114 that is based on a heel circumference of a foot for one size selected out of men's shoe sizes 7-17 or women's shoe sizes 4-12. In a particular example, for illustration purposes, for a sock 100 that fits a foot having a men's shoe size 10, the heel lock mechanism 120 includes a quantity of courses of fibrous material 114 that is based on a heel circumference of a foot that fits a men's shoe size 10.

As illustrated in FIG. 4, the heel lock mechanism 120 includes a heel lock mechanism circumference 122, which is a measurement taken of the sock 100 at a diagonal around the heel area 106 and up to the ankle area 110. The sock 100 also include a toe box circumference 124, which is a measurement taken of the sock 100 at a portion of the sock around the ball of a user's foot and where a user's toes meet the user's foot in a straight line. In connection with the toe box circumference 124, the inventors have discovered that increasing the stitch pull length (i.e., the distance the knitting needle pulls the fiber through the previous course of knitting) by 20% during the manufacture of the sock 100 provides an optimal fit around the toe box area 104.

The arch portion 107 of the sock 100 includes an arch circumference 126, which is a measurement taken of the sock 100 at a portion of the sock that sits around a user's arch. The ankle area 110 of the sock 100 includes an ankle circumference 128, which is a measurement taken of the sock 100 at a portion of the sock that sits around a user's ankle.

In socks 100 that have a leg portion 108 that extends over and past an ankle of a user, the sock has a calf circumference 130 (shown in FIG. 1). Calf circumference 130 is a measurement taken of the sock 100 at a portion of the sock that sits around the largest part of a user's calf.

Still referring to FIG. 4, the sock 100 includes a measurement L₁ which is from the portion of the sock that ends at the tip of the large toe and ends at the center of the back heel. The measurement L₁ provides information to make the sock 100 a length that is appropriate to the corresponding shoe size.

In one embodiment of sock 100, the arch circumference 126 is larger than the toe box circumference 124. In particular, the arch circumference 126 is between about 0.50 inches (1.27 cm) to about 1.00 inch (2.54 cm) larger than the toe box circumference 124. In one embodiment, the arch circumference 126 is about 0.50 inches larger than the toe box circumference 124. In another embodiment, the arch circumference 126 is about 0.75 inches (1.91 cm) larger than the toe box circumference 124. In yet a further embodiment, the arch circumference 126 is about 1 inch larger than the toe box circumference.

In one embodiment of sock 100, the heel lock circumference 122 is larger than the ankle circumference 128. In one example, the heel lock circumference is between about 1.75 inches (4.45 cm) to about 3.00 inches (7.62 cm) larger than the ankle circumference. In particular, the heel lock circumference 122 is about 1.75 inches larger than the ankle circumference 128. In one embodiment, the heel lock circumference 122 is about 2.00 inches (5.08 cm) larger than the ankle circumference 128. In another embodiment, the heel lock circumference 122 is about 2.25 inches (5.72 cm) larger than the ankle circumference 128. In a further embodiment, the heel lock circumference 122 is about 2.50 inches (6.35 cm) larger than the ankle circumference 128. In yet a further embodiment, the heel length circumference 122 is about 3.0 inches larger than the angle circumference 128.

Referring back to FIGS. 1, 2A and 2B, the sock 100 of the present invention is made from fibrous material 114. In one embodiment, the sock is made from fibrous material 114 that includes natural fibers, synthetic fibers, or a combination thereof. It is contemplated that the entire sock 100 is made of the same fiber composition, however, there are instances where the toe area 104 may be made of a first fiber, and the remainder of the sock 100 is made of a second fiber, that is different from the first fiber.

Natural fibers include any fibers that can be found in nature and are not considered to be “man-made”. Examples of natural fibers include, but are not limited to, cotton, wool, bamboo, rayon, hemp, modal, silk. In one embodiment, the sock 100 is made of only one type of natural fiber. In another embodiment, the sock 100 is made of more than one type of natural fiber. In a specific embodiment, the sock 100 is made from a blend of wool and cotton. The sock 100 is not limited in this regard as the sock 100 can be made of a blend of two or more types of natural fibers.

Synthetic fibers include any fibers that are not found in nature and are considered to be “man-made”. Examples of synthetic fibers include, but are not limited to, nylon, polyester, elastane, and polypropylene. In one embodiment, the sock 100 is made of only one type of synthetic fiber. In another embodiment, the sock 100 is made of more than one type of natural fiber. In a specific embodiment, the sock is made from a blend of nylon and elastane. The sock 100 is not limited in this regard as the sock 100 can be made of a blend of two or more types of synthetic fibers.

In one embodiment, sock 100 is made from a combination of a natural fiber such as wool and a synthetic fiber such as elastane (also known as spandex or LYCRA® fiber, a trademark of INVISTA). In another embodiment, sock 100 is made from a combination of wool, nylon and elastane. Other combinations of natural fibers and synthetic fibers are contemplated by the instant invention.

It is contemplated that any amount of the desired types of fibers can be used in the sock 100. That is, the sock can include an amount from about 0% to about 100% of natural fibers and an amount of about 0% to about 100% synthetic fibers. In one embodiment, the sock 100 is made from 100% natural fibers. In on embodiment, the sock is made from 100% synthetic fibers. In one embodiment, the sock 100 is made from 50% natural fibers and 50% synthetic fibers. In another embodiment, the sock 100 is made from 75% natural fibers and 25% synthetic fibers. In a further embodiment, the sock 100 is made from 70% natural fibers and 30% synthetic fibers.

The sock 100 is made by any method that is acceptable to making a sock. When the sock 100 is made from fibrous material 114, the sock is typically made by knitting. Knitting can be performed either by hand or by machine. If the sock 100 is knit by hand, the artisan must take care to measure the sock 100 to ensure the sock is made in accordance with a shoe size. If the sock 100 is knit by machine, it is contemplated that a commercial type knitting machine can be utilized such that the measurements can be entered into the machine to manufacture the sock 100 in accordance with a shoe size.

FIG. 5 illustrates a flow chart of a method 200 of manufacturing the sock 100. The method 200 includes a step 202 of knitting a plurality of fibers. The fibers used in the method 200 are in accordance with the natural and synthetic fibers as discussed in more detail above. In step 204, the method 200 includes forming the knit fibers into the foot portion 102 having a toe area 104. As explained in detail above, the toe area 104 extends to an opposing heel area 106. In step 206 of the method 200, the leg portion 108 is formed and adjoins the foot portion 102 at the ankle area 110. As described above, the leg portion 108 of the sock 100 terminates at an opening 112 for placement of the sock on a foot. In step 208, the sock 100 is knitted to a size in accordance with a shoe size. In one embodiment, the sock 100 is knitted to a size in accordance with a standard American shoe size. In another embodiment, the sock 100 is knitted to a size in accordance with a standard American shoe size of a men's size 1 to a men's size 17.

While FIG. 5 illustrates the method 200 as having multiple steps that are illustrated as being distinct from one another, it is contemplated that the sock 100 is manufactured (knit) in one continuous step. In another embodiment, it is contemplated that all of the parts of the sock 100 are knitted together and then a seam 116 (shown in FIG. 1) is sewn onto the toe area 104 to close the toe area of the sock. It is also contemplated that after all the parts of the sock 100 are knitted, elastic material 118 (shown in FIG. 1) is added to the leg portion 108 near the opening 112 to facilitate a consumer putting the sock 100 over and around the foot. In another embodiment, elastic material 118 is knitted directly into the sock 100 near the opening 112 along with the natural and/or synthetic fibers used to make the sock 100.

When the sock 100 is made in accordance with the desired method, the measurements relevant for the size of sock that is being made are taken into account. For example, when an automated knitting machine is utilized to make the sock 100, the knitting machine is programmed with the desired measurements of the toe box circumference 124, the arch circumference 126, the heel lock circumference 122, the ankle circumference 128, the measurement L₁, and, optionally, the calf circumference 130. Alternatively, the socks 100 can be made manually, i.e., hand knitted, and the measurements would be taken in account during the knitting process.

It is contemplated that the above features of the sock 100 can be used in combination with one another. For example, sock 100 can have an arch circumference that is larger than the toe box circumference in accordance with the range provided herein and a heel lock circumference that is larger than the ankle circumference in accordance with the range provided herein. However, it is also contemplated that sock 100 can have an arch circumference that is larger than the toe box circumference outside of the range provided herein and a heel lock circumference that is larger than the ankle circumference in accordance with the range provided herein and vice versa. Other combinations not specifically listed herein are contemplated by the inventors and are understood to be encompassed by the disclosure provided herein.

The subject invention includes, but is not limited to, the following exemplified embodiments:

Embodiment 1

A sock comprising:

-   -   a foot portion having a toe area extending to an opposing a heel         area; and     -   a leg portion adjoining the foot portion at an ankle area, the         leg portion terminating at an opening for placement of the sock         on a foot,     -   wherein the sock is sized in accordance with a shoe size.

Embodiment 2

The sock according to embodiment 1, wherein the shoe size is a standard American shoe size.

Embodiment 3

The sock according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the foot portion and the leg portion comprise natural fibers, synthetic fibers, or a combination thereof.

Embodiment 4

The sock according to embodiment 3, wherein the natural fibers are selected from a group consisting of cotton, wool, bamboo, rayon, hemp, modal, silk, and combinations thereof.

Embodiment 5

The sock according to embodiment 3, wherein the synthetic fibers are selected from a group consisting of nylon, polyester, elastane, polypropylene, and combinations thereof.

Embodiment 6

The sock according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the sock is a unitary design.

Embodiment 7

The sock according to any one of embodiments 1-5, wherein the sock is a right foot design or a left foot design.

Embodiment 8

A method of manufacturing a sock, the method comprising:

knitting a plurality of fibers to form a foot portion having a toe area extending to an opposing a heel area and a leg portion adjoining the foot portion at an ankle area, the leg portion terminating at an opening for placement of the sock on a foot,

wherein the sock is knitted to a size in accordance with a standard shoe size.

Embodiment 9

The method according to embodiment 8, wherein the shoe size is a standard American shoe size.

Embodiment 10

The method according to any one of embodiments 8-9, wherein the plurality of fibers is selected from the group consisting of natural fibers, synthetic fibers, and combinations thereof.

Embodiment 11

The method according to embodiment 10, wherein the natural fibers are selected from a group consisting of cotton, wool, bamboo, rayon, hemp, modal, silk, and combinations thereof.

Embodiment 12

The method according to embodiment 10, wherein the synthetic fibers are selected from a group consisting of nylon, polyester, elastane, polypropylene, and combinations thereof.

Embodiment 13

The method according to any one of embodiments 8-12, wherein the sock is a unitary design.

Embodiment 14

The method according to any one of embodiments 8-12, wherein the sock is a right foot design or a left foot design.

Embodiment 15

A method of making a sock, the method comprising:

-   -   knitting a plurality of fibers to form a foot portion having a         toe area extending to an opposing a heel area and a leg portion         adjoining the foot portion at an ankle area, the leg portion         terminating at an opening for placement of the sock on a foot,     -   wherein the sock is knitted in a size in accordance with a         standard American shoe size selected from a men size 1 to a men         size 17.

Embodiment 16

A sock comprising:

-   -   a foot portion having a toe box area and an opposing heel area         with an arch portion extending from the toe box area to the heel         area;     -   the heel area comprising a heel lock mechanism configured to         stabilize the heel area to a heel; and     -   a leg portion adjoining the foot portion at an ankle area, the         leg portion terminating at a circumferential opening for         placement of the sock on a foot,     -   wherein the sock is sized in accordance with a single shoe size.

Embodiment 17

The sock according to embodiment 16, wherein the shoe size is a standard American shoe size.

Embodiment 18

The sock according to any one of embodiments 16-17, wherein the foot portion and the leg portion comprise natural fibers, synthetic fibers, or a combination thereof.

Embodiment 19

The sock according to embodiment 18, wherein the natural fibers are selected from a group consisting of cotton, wool, bamboo, rayon, hemp, modal, silk, and combinations thereof.

Embodiment 20

The sock according to embodiment 18, wherein the synthetic fibers are selected from a group consisting of nylon, polyester, elastane, polypropylene, and combinations thereof.

Embodiment 21

The sock according any one of embodiments 16-20, wherein:

-   -   the toe box area comprises a toe box circumference;     -   the arch portion comprises an arch circumference;     -   the heel lock mechanism comprising a heel lock circumference;         and     -   the ankle area comprises an ankle circumference.

Embodiment 22

The sock according embodiment 21, wherein the arch circumference is larger than the toe box circumference, wherein the arch circumference is between about 0.50 inches to about 1.00 inch larger than the toe box circumference.

Embodiment 23

The sock according to embodiment 21, wherein the heel lock circumference is larger than the ankle circumference, wherein the heel lock circumference is between about 1.75 inches to about 3.00 inches larger than the ankle circumference.

Embodiment 24

A method of manufacturing a sock, the method comprising:

-   -   knitting a plurality of fibers to form a foot portion and a leg         portion,     -   wherein, the foot portion comprises a toe box area and an         opposing a heel area with an arch portion extending from the toe         box area to the heel area, the heel area comprising a heel lock         mechanism configured to stabilize the heel area to a heel; and     -   the leg portion adjoins the foot portion at an ankle area, the         leg portion terminating at an opening for placement of the sock         on a foot,     -   wherein the sock is knitted to a size in accordance with a         standard shoe size.

Embodiment 25

The method according to embodiment 24, wherein the shoe size is a standard American shoe size.

Embodiment 26

The method according to any one of embodiments 24-25, wherein the plurality of fibers is selected from the group consisting of natural fibers, synthetic fibers, and combinations of synthetic fibers and natural fibers.

Embodiment 27

The method according to embodiment 26, wherein the natural fibers are selected from a group consisting of cotton, wool, bamboo, rayon, hemp, modal, silk, and combinations thereof.

Embodiment 28

The method according to embodiment 26, wherein the synthetic fibers are selected from a group consisting of nylon, polyester, elastane, polypropylene, and combinations thereof.

Embodiment 29

The method according to any one of embodiments 24-28, wherein the sock is knitted in a size in accordance with a standard American shoe size selected from a men size 1 to a men size 17.

Embodiment 30

The method according to any one of embodiments 24-29, wherein the plurality of fibers are knitted to provide:

-   -   a toe box circumference at the toe box area;     -   an arch circumference at the arch portion;     -   a heel lock circumference at the heel lock mechanism; and     -   an ankle circumference at the ankle portion.

Embodiment 31

The method according to embodiment 30, wherein the arch circumference is larger than the toe box circumference, wherein the arch circumference is between about 0.50 inches to about 1.00 inch larger than the toe box circumference.

Embodiment 32

The method according to embodiment 30, wherein the heel lock circumference is larger than the ankle circumference, wherein the heel lock circumference is between about 1.75 inches to about 3.00 inches larger than the ankle circumference.

A greater understanding of the present invention and of its many advantages may be had from the following examples, given by way of illustration. The following examples are illustrative of some of the methods, applications, embodiments and variants of the present invention. They are, of course, not to be considered as limiting the invention since numerous changes and modifications can be made while still falling within the scope and spirit of the present invention.

EXAMPLES

In an effort to compare the socks 100 according to the present application with sized socks that are known in the art, the inventors purchased sized prior art socks from a retailer marketing socks that are sold in single sizes and advertised as “tailored”. The inventors bought a pair of size 12″ prior art socks and compared them to socks 100 according to the current invention.

BACKGROUND

As indicated above, NAHM has created foot boards that attempt to develop a consistent fit amongst the same sized socks made by different brands. The NAHM foot forms attempt to cover measurements for length and width with minimum cross stretch and fit parameters to allow for proper fitting of both narrow, long feet and short, wide feet that still wear the same size shoe. As noted above, different sock manufacturers offer different numerical sizes having ranges, e.g., 11-13, 9-12, etc. Each of those socks fit the foot form corresponding to those ranges, e.g., a size 9-12 will fit the 10.5 board, the 11 board, the 11.5 board and the 12 board all with ease.

NAHM foot boards are available in children's sizes (sizes 3.0-8.5), women's sizes (sizes 9.0-12.5) and men's sizes (sizes 9.0-16.0). The men's foot boards are in ½ sizes until size 12, and from size 12 on they follow whole sizes (i.e., 13, 14, 15, 16) to incrementally increase both width and length maximum to accommodate a maximum size capacity within an average of ¼ inch (0.25 inch or 0.635 cm).

Prior Art Socks

The inventors purchased prior art socks as shown in FIG. 6: a pair marketed and sold as size 12″ socks. Upon inspection of the purchased prior art socks shown in FIG. 6, the inventors noted that the packaging indicates that the size 12″ sock corresponds to a range of shoe sizes, namely US size 12-13. Thus, the prior art socks are sized with a numerical range, i.e., 12-13, that can fit a range of foot sizes rather than a specific, single size that fits a foot having a particular size.

The inventors fit the prior art size 12″ socks on NAHM foot boards to determine whether the prior art socks fit only size 12 and 13 boards, which would be in accordance with the size range given on the socks. The conclusions are provided in Table 1 below, and illustrated in the photographs of the corresponding Figures.

TABLE 1 Prior Art NAHM Foot Corresponding Sock Size Board Size Comments on Fit Figure 12-13 11.5 Heel, toe box and length FIGS. 7A-7B fit board; no excess material bunching at heel or toe 12-13 12 Heel, toe box and length FIGS. 8A-8B fit board; no excess material bunching at heel or toe 12-13 13 Heel, toe box and length FIGS. 9A-9B fit board; no excess material bunching at heel or toe 12-13 14 heel, toe box and length FIGS. 10A-10B fit board; no undue stretching at heel or toe

Thus, the prior art socks having the range of “Size 12-13” fit NAHM board sizes 11.5, 12, 13 and 14. Accordingly, the prior art socks fit a range of differently sized feet that fall both inside and outside of the numerical range size. Thus, the prior art socks are not sized to fit a single, specific size.

Socks According to the Instant Invention

The prior art socks are in contrast to the socks according to the instant invention, wherein the sized sock fits a foot of a single, specific size, and the size of the sock corresponds to a shoe size. This is shown in Table 2, below and illustrated in the photographs of the corresponding Figures.

TABLE 2 Current Invention NAHM Foot Corresponding Sock Size Board Size Comments on Fit Figure 12 11.5 Sock too big for board; FIG. 11 note excess material at ankle 12 12 Heel, toe box and length FIG. 12 fit board; no excess material bunching at heel or toe 12 13 Toe box appears to fit FIG. 13 board; length of sock does not fit board; sock does not reach ankle 13 12 Sock too big for board; FIG. 14 note excess material at ankle 13 13 Heel, toe box and length FIG. 15 fit board; no excess material bunching at heel or toe 13 14 Toe box appears to fit FIG. 16 board; length of sock does not fit board; sock does not reach ankle

In view of Table 2 and the corresponding FIGS. 11-16, it is apparent that the socks 100 according to the current invention fit only one size board, i.e., size 12 sock only fits the size 12 board, size 13 sock only fits size 13 board, etc. The fit is apparent in the toe box, the heel and the length. Thus, the socks according to the current invention only fit a single, specifically sized foot.

It should be understood that the examples and embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes only and that various modifications or changes in light thereof will be suggested to persons skilled in the art and are to be included within the spirit and purview of this application. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A sock comprising: a foot portion having a toe box area and an opposing heel area with an arch portion extending from the toe box area to the heel area; the heel area comprising a heel lock mechanism configured to stabilize the heel area to a heel; and a leg portion adjoining the foot portion at an ankle area, the leg portion terminating at a circumferential opening for placement of the sock on a foot, wherein the sock is sized in accordance with a single shoe size.
 2. The sock according to claim 1, wherein the shoe size is a standard American shoe size.
 3. The sock according to claim 1, wherein the foot portion and the leg portion comprise natural fibers, synthetic fibers, or a combination thereof.
 4. The sock according to claim 3, wherein the natural fibers are selected from a group consisting of cotton, wool, bamboo, rayon, hemp, modal, silk, and combinations thereof.
 5. The sock according to claim 3, wherein the synthetic fibers are selected from a group consisting of nylon, polyester, elastane, polypropylene, and combinations thereof.
 6. The sock according to claim 1, wherein: the toe box area comprises a toe box circumference; the arch portion comprises an arch circumference; the heel lock mechanism comprising a heel lock circumference; and the ankle area comprises an ankle circumference.
 7. The sock according to claim 6, wherein the arch circumference is larger than the toe box circumference, wherein the arch circumference is between about 0.50 inches to about 1.00 inch larger than the toe box circumference.
 8. The sock according to claim 6, wherein the heel lock circumference is larger than the ankle circumference, wherein the heel lock circumference is between about 1.75 inches to about 3.00 inches larger than the ankle circumference.
 9. A method of manufacturing a sock, the method comprising: knitting a plurality of fibers to form a foot portion and a leg portion, wherein, the foot portion comprises a toe box area and an opposing a heel area with an arch portion extending from the toe box area to the heel area, the heel area comprising a heel lock mechanism configured to stabilize the heel area to a heel; and the leg portion adjoins the foot portion at an ankle area, the leg portion terminating at an opening for placement of the sock on a foot, wherein the sock is knitted to a size in accordance with a standard shoe size.
 10. The method according to claim 9, wherein the shoe size is a standard American shoe size.
 11. The method according to claim 9, wherein the plurality of fibers is selected from the group consisting of natural fibers, synthetic fibers, and combinations of synthetic fibers and natural fibers.
 12. The method according to claim 11, wherein the natural fibers are selected from a group consisting of cotton, wool, bamboo, rayon, hemp, modal, silk, and combinations thereof.
 13. The method according to claim 11, wherein the synthetic fibers are selected from a group consisting of nylon, polyester, elastane, polypropylene, and combinations thereof.
 14. The method according to claim 9, wherein the sock is knitted in a size in accordance with a standard American shoe size selected from a men size 1 to a men size
 17. 15. The method according to claim 9, wherein the plurality of fibers are knitted to provide: a toe box circumference at the toe box area; an arch circumference at the arch portion; a heel lock circumference at the heel lock mechanism; and an ankle circumference at the ankle portion.
 16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the arch circumference is larger than the toe box circumference, wherein the arch circumference is between about 0.50 inches to about 1.00 inch larger than the toe box circumference.
 17. The method according to claim 15, wherein the heel lock circumference is larger than the ankle circumference, wherein the heel lock circumference is between about 1.75 inches to about 3.00 inches larger than the ankle circumference. 